'Fit and ready' Bellafina turns in final Breeders' Cup work

Santa Anita Oaks winner Bellafina had her final major prep for Saturday’s $1 million Filly & Mare Sprint this morning at 6:30, working four furlongs in 48.20 under exercise rider Ivan de Silva for Simon Callaghan.

“It was what we expected,” the trainer said. “She’s fit and ready.”

Addressing yesterday’s five furlong bullet work in 1:00.60 by Donna Veloce for the Juvenile Fillies at 1 1/16 miles, Callaghan said, “I was really happy.”

A handy 9 ¼-length winner of her only start, at 6 ½ furlongs against five rivals, the bay daughter of Uncle Mo owned by Kaleem Shah seemingly faces a more daunting task against seasoned challengers with route experience in the Juvenile Fillies

“She’s had only one run, but we just hope her talent can help pull her through,” Callaghan said. “It’s definitely a tough ask going from 6 ½ to a mile and a sixteenth Grade 1 Breeders’ Cup.

“We know that, but we’re optimistic she can do it.”